Gobustan National Park is one of the most extraordinary archaeological and geological sites on Earth. Located just 60 km southwest of Baku, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features over 6,000 prehistoric rock carvings and more than 300 active mud volcanoes. The surreal landscape of bubbling mud cones and ancient drawings offers a fascinating journey into humanity’s distant past.

The petroglyphs date back up to 40,000 years and depict ancient hunters, dancers, boats, and animals. Roman soldiers left inscriptions here in the 1st century AD. The mud volcanoes have been active for thousands of years and were considered sacred by ancient fire-worshippers.

Dancing Men rock, Gaval Dash musical stone, Boyukdash and Kichikdash mountains, and the excellent modern visitor centre.

The ancient heart of Baku, Icherisheher is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a living medieval town. Surrounded by 12th-century fortress walls, this 22-hectare area is one of the best-preserved historic cities in the Caucasus where families still live inside the ancient walls.

Continuously inhabited for over 1,500 years, it was a major Silk Road trading post. It flourished under the Shirvanshah dynasty in the 15th century and later came under Persian, Ottoman, and Russian rule.

Maiden Tower, Palace of the Shirvanshahs, ancient caravanserais, mosques, hammams, and narrow cobblestone streets.

The Flame Towers are the iconic symbol of modern Baku. These three glass skyscrapers (182m, 160m, 160m) shaped like flickering flames dominate the city skyline and represent Azerbaijan’s eternal fire and oil heritage.

Designed by international architects and completed in 2012. They are part of Baku’s major modernization project after independence. At night, 10,000 LED lights create spectacular fire shows.

Night LED light shows, panoramic views from Highland Park, and their dramatic presence on the Baku skyline.

The Caspian Sea is the world’s largest inland body of water. Azerbaijan’s 825 km coastline offers everything from urban beaches in Baku to wild, untouched shores in the north.

Oil has been extracted here since the 10th century. The sea has been central to Azerbaijan’s economy and culture for centuries.

Baku Boulevard, Bilgah Beach, Nabran, Ateshgah Fire Temple, and Yanar Dag.

At 2,350 metres, Khinalug is one of the highest continuously inhabited villages in the world. Its ancient stone houses and unique culture make it one of the most special places in Azerbaijan.

Inhabited for over 5,000 years with its own distinct language. The village was largely isolated until a road was built in 2006. It was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2021.

Ancient stone architecture, village mosque, panoramic viewpoints, and traditional homestays.

Sheki is widely considered one of the most beautiful towns in Azerbaijan. Nestled in the foothills of the Caucasus, it is famous for its stunning Khan’s Palace and rich Silk Road heritage.

Important Silk Road trading post and former capital of the Sheki Khanate in the 18th century. The palace was built without nails or glue.

Sheki Khan’s Palace, Karvansaray, Silk Factory, and scenic mountain views.

Often called the Switzerland of Azerbaijan, Gabala offers year-round beauty with snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and excellent outdoor activities.

Ancient capital of Caucasian Albania. Modern Gabala has grown into a major tourism and leisure destination since the opening of Tufandag resort in 2014.

Tufandag Ski Resort, Gabaland amusement park, ancient Gabala ruins, and beautiful waterfalls.

Housed in a striking building shaped like a rolled carpet, this museum holds the world’s largest collection of Azerbaijani carpets — over 14,000 pieces.

Azerbaijani carpet weaving is recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. The museum was founded by Latif Karimov, a leading expert in the field.

Ancient carpets from different regions, live weaving demonstrations, and excellent exhibits explaining techniques and symbolism.

Lahij is a historic mountain village famous for its master copper craftsmen who have been practicing their art for over 1,500 years using unchanged traditional techniques.

A major stop on the Silk Road. Lahij craftsmen were renowned across the region for their high-quality copperware.

Traditional copper workshops, cobblestone streets, ancient mosque, and scenic mountain location.

Goygol (Blue Lake) is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Azerbaijan. Surrounded by dense forests and mountains, its crystal-clear turquoise water is breathtaking.

Formed by a massive earthquake in 1139 that blocked the river with rocks. The area has been protected since Soviet times.

Stunning turquoise water, hiking trails, picnic areas, and peaceful mountain scenery.

Yanar Dag is a natural gas fire that has been burning continuously for thousands of years on the hillside. The flames can reach up to 3 metres high.

Known to ancient travelers and mentioned by Marco Polo. It was a sacred site for Zoroastrians who worshipped fire.

The eternal flame, visitor centre, and surrounding natural gas vents.

Azerbaijan’s second-largest city is rich in culture and history. Known as the birthplace of the great poet Nizami Ganjavi, Ganja offers a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful parks.

Founded in 859 AD, Ganja was once one of the most important cities in the region and a major cultural centre.

Nizami Mausoleum, Bottle House, Javad Khan Street, Imamzadeh Complex, and nearby Goygol Lake.